Across the Aisles: Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish

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Parishioners worshiped God in the sacred liturgy Sunday morning, April 19 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in South Philadelphia. Father James C. Otto, parish pastor, was the celebrant and homilist for the 11:30 a.m. Mass. The grand and ornate church at 3rd and Reed streets was built after the parish was founded in 1871. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

A cross in the church near an altar to the Blessed Virgin Mary reminds visitors during the Easter season of the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Father James Otto, pastor, and Maryellen Carroll call forward the children in the congregation for the children’s liturgy during the 11:30 a.m. Mass.

Lector Melody Posivak.

Father Otto proclaims the Gospel reading.

Tom O’Malley prays before Mass.

Three generations of ladies pray together — (from left) Lillian and Elizabeth Betteridge and Mary Crumlish.

Eleanor Roberts.

Father Otto preaches the homily for his parishioners.

Connor Lord helps take up the collection with other ushers.

Father Otto celebrates the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Extraordinary minister of holy Communion Barbara Murawski.

Jane Polchenko.

Servers Justin Rice and Faith Vetteridge, lector Melody Posivak and Father James Otto process from the altar at the conclusion of the Mass.